Entry-level Respiratory Therapists
Entry-level respiratory therapists perform general respiratory care procedures and specified respiratory care and therapeutic techniques under the supervision of an advanced-level therapist and/or a physician.
Credentialing
Graduates of the associate degree program in cardiopulmonary care science are eligible to complete examinations that lead to dual entry-level credentialing in respiratory care (Entry Level Certified Respiratory Therapist) and cardiovascular technology (Entry Level Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist) by the National Board for Respiratory Care. Graduates are also eligible for state licensing in respiratory care by the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners.
Employment characteristics
Entry-level respiratory therapists are employed in:
- hospitals,
- nursing care facilities,
- clinics,
- physicians’ offices,
- home care companies,
- rehabilitation facilities,
- educational institutions,
- pharmaceutical companies,
- pulmonary function laboratories,
- sleep laboratories and
- companies providing emergency oxygen services.
Job duties
The entry-level respiratory therapist may perform the following procedures:
- review patient records, including test results;
- recommend procedures to obtain additional data;
- select and use equipment needed to deliver respiratory care and ensure infection control;
- maintain records and communication patients’ clinical status to appropriate members of a health care team;
- maintain a patient’s airway, including care of artificial airways;
- remove bronchial secretions;
- modify or recommend modifications to therapeutic procedures;
- conduct respiratory care techniques in an emergency setting;
- assist physicians in performing special procedures; and
- perform pulmonary rehabilitation and home care.
Salary
The Human Resources Study from the American Association for Respiratory Care indicated that the average salary for entry-level certified respiratory therapists was $40,277 in 2000.
Advancement
Graduates can further their education and credentialing through advanced course offerings in respiratory therapy while working as entry-level respiratory therapists. In addition to this advanced credentialing, students may pursue a bachelor’s degree in health sciences with a concentration in advanced cardiopulmonary care.